Soulive
I spent the holiday weekend in Iowa City getting my annual dose of jazz and blues. Strange that a college town in eastern Iowa draws some of the best musicians in the country to celebrate U.S. independence in stifling heat and humidity (with the university on summer break); I'm not complaining. I certainly reap the benefits. Soulive headlined on Saturday evening, delivering their mix of funk, soul, and jazz to a receptive crowd. After a day of persistent rain, Soulive produced a welcome renewal carrying over into the July 4 festivities. Formed by brothers Alan and Neal Evans, a formidable combo on drums and organ respectively, Soulive brings an infectious energy to both their recorded works and live performances. Recordings feature Dave Matthews, Meshell Ndegeocello, Jurassic 5, and an assortment of session greats.